Hybrid EEG Sensor Array for Brain/Computer Interfaces

描述（由申请人提供）：有严重运动障碍的人需要其他的沟通和控制方法，甚至可能无法使用最基本的传统辅助技术。不依赖于神经肌肉功能的通信和控制技术是必不可少的。许多研究表明，人们，包括那些有严重运动障碍的人，可以学习使用脑电图（EEG）来控制光标、选择图标、进行基本的文字处理，甚至操作机械臂。沃兹沃斯中心健康研究所的科学家们已经开始将这些复杂的脑机接口（bci）从实验室设备转化为实用的、用户友好的辅助设备。目前的技术适合实验室使用；然而，最近在Wadsworth中心的研究表明，需要一名训练有素的技术人员来应用传统的脑电图记录电极，并且与头皮上潮湿的电解质连接相关的不适是接受家庭使用的严重障碍。该项目旨在通过开发一种革命性的干式脑电图传感器系统来克服这些障碍，该系统可用于家用脑机接口系统。该系统将利用QUASAR混合传感器技术的最新创新，该技术允许使用不需要皮肤准备或电解质凝胶的有源传感器进行高保真脑电图记录；它们只需要轻轻接触头皮。这项工作将改进脑机接口技术，使其成为一种易于使用的临床上实用的通信技术，并显著改善重度运动障碍患者的生活。在这个项目中，量子应用科学与研究公司（QUASAR）提议与沃兹沃斯中心健康研究所的科学家合作，为家用脑机接口系统开发一种基于脑电图的可穿戴设备。拟议的系统为严重残疾人提供了用脑电波控制电脑、轮椅和其他辅助设备的可能性，提高了他们的通信能力，并为他们提供了更好的控制辅助设备的能力，使他们能够在世界上发挥作用。虽然BCI系统目前已经存在，但它们的局限性在于，与它们使用相关的电极需要专业的应用，并且长期佩戴不舒服。类星体独特的传感技术允许开发一个简单的安装，舒适的设备，长期磨损。

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): People with severe motor disabilities need alternative methods for communication and control, and may not be able to use even the most basic conventional assistive technology. Communication and control technology that does not depend on neuromuscular function is essential. Many research studies have now shown that people, including those with severe motor disabilities, can learn to use electroencephalograms or EEG to control a cursor, select icons, do basic word-processing, or even operate a robotic arm. Scientists at the Wadsworth Center's Health Research Institute have begun to convert these complex brain-computer interfaces or BCIs from laboratory devices into practical, user-friendly assistive devices. The current technology is adequate for laboratory use; however, recent studies at the Wadsworth Center have shown that the need for a trained technician to apply conventional EEG recording electrodes and the discomfort associated with a wet, electrolyte-based connection to the scalp are serious barriers to acceptance for home use. This project aims to overcome these barriers by developing a revolutionary dry EEG sensor system for use in home BCI systems. This system will take advantage of recent innovations at QUASAR in hybrid sensor technology that allow high-fidelity EEG recordings to be made with active sensors that do not need skin preparation or electrolyte gel; they only need gentle contact with the scalp. This work should improve BCI technology, establishing it as an easy-to-use communication technology that is clinically practical, and significantly improve the lives of people with severe motor disabilities. In this project, Quantum Applied Science & Research (QUASAR), Inc. proposes to work with scientists at the Wadsworth Center's Health Research Institute to develop an EEG- based, wearable device for an at-home brain-computer interface system. The proposed system offers the potential for severely disabled individuals to control computers, wheelchairs and other assistance devices with brainwaves, increasing their communication capabilities and providing them greater control of the assistive devices that allow them to function in the world. Although BCI systems currently exist, they are limited by the fact that the electrodes associated with their use require professional application and are uncomfortable for long-term wear. QUASAR's unique sensing technology allows the development of a simple-to-install, comfortable device for long- term wear.